This time we tested Zalman CNPS10X Extreme CPU cooler, which is based on the now traditional "tower" design, with five U-shape heatpipes connecting the base to the heatsink. The main feature from this cooler is its speed controller, nicely designed. But will its performance be better than the one from its competitors? Check it out!

CNPS stands for "Computer Noise Prevention System". This means that this cooler targets silence. Altought, according to Zalman, it has the incredible TDP of 340 W.

The black box does not show how the cooler looks; the front window let us see only the semi-transparent 120 mm fan.

click to enlargeFigure 1: Box.

Inside the box, besides the cooler, there is a user manual, installation hardware, a tube with ZM-STG2 thermal compound and an extension wire that allows you to instal "PWM Mate" controller outside the case.

click to enlargeFigure 2: Accessories.

Removing CNPS10X from the box we were really impressed with its robustness, as well as the fact it is entirely black, from the plastic parts down to the heatpipes and base, which are nickel-plated in order to achieve a black metal looks. Even the fan power cable is black.

The only "non-black" part is the 120 mm fan, which is made in translucid plastic. At its center blue LEDs glow when the fan is working.

click to enlargeFigure 3: Zalman CNPS10X Extreme.

CNPS10X Extreme tough aspect is in part due to the thick heatsink fins. Because of this, the cooler is pretty heavy: 2 lbs (920 g). Anyway, it is a very impressive piece of hardware.